A WORKSHOP aiming to help people affected by changes to how they receive benefit payments is to be held tomorrow.

Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council have organised the free event at the Basingstoke Discovery Centre on February 12. The borough council will be on hand to offer help and advice to residents affected by the changes.

The event which will run between 10am and 2pm, will include information on what the new benefit claimant commitment is, how to get online at home and how to use the internet to look for jobs, fill in applications and forms, use Universal Jobmatch and access free training.

Organisations such as Sentinel and Sovereign housing associations, Basingstoke Jobcentre Plus, Basingstoke Job Clubs, Basingstoke College of Technology and Basingstoke Citizens Advice Bureau will be on hand to offer expert advice and guidance.

Cabinet member for Community Services at Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council, Councillor Hayley Eachus said: “It is important people do not bury their heads in the sand and act early to get the right help and advice.

“This event provides residents with an opportunity to get the help and support they need in order to be confident to use the internet to find training, work and apply online in preparation for the benefit changes which could affect them.”

More information about the event or how to receive help and advice can be found at www.basingstoke.gov.uk/go/benefitadvice or call the borough council on 01256 844844.

For more information on welfare reform changes visit www.basingstoke.gov.uk/go/benefitchanges.